Sponge
Summary
A porous marine organism mentioned only in connection with Jesus' crucifixion, when vinegar was offered to Him on a sponge.
☩Use at the Crucifixion
A sponge is mentioned in the accounts of Jesus' crucifixion. When Jesus said 'I thirst,' someone filled a sponge with sour wine (vinegar), placed it on a reed or branch of hyssop, and lifted it to His lips. This fulfilled the prophetic psalm that spoke of the Messiah being given vinegar to drink.
☩Natural History
Sponges were known from ancient times and were valued commercially. They were considered by ancients to be plants but are now known to be simple marine animals that attach themselves to rocks in the sea. The Eastern Mediterranean, particularly the Grecian isles, has long been a center for sponge fishing. Sponges were used for bathing, cleaning, and various practical purposes.
References
- 1.John McClintock and James Strong, "Sponge," in Cyclopedia of Biblical, Theological and Ecclesiastical Literature, vol. IX (Harper & Brothers, 1867–1887).
- 2.James Orr (ed.), "Sponge," in International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, vol. V (Howard-Severance Company, 1915).